World Press Freedom Day: Japan latest to crack down on reporters

May 2, 2016 5:03 PM

26
0

TOKYO — Tuesday marks World Press Freedom Day, but many journalists in Japan say government pressure, weak institutional controls and a powerful state secrecy law cause a worrisome loss in press freedom.

Three prominent journalists resigned in March amid concerns that pressure from government and conservative groups cause news organizations to avoid or soften reporting on controversial subjects, such as recent legislation easing constitutional restraints on Japan’s military.